Second tier to contender?

[ScreamingRocketJet]

If we all agree that LA, San Antonio, Utah and Portland + possibly Sacramento are the main chances to win the title...what trades do people think would push the 'second tier' teams 'over the top', ie...take a team like Philly, Phoenix, Minnesota, New York and make them a contender.

I think the main one would be Philly. They already have a great chance to come through the East (I believe they will as it is) but I don't think they'd have a hope to win it all UNLESS they can pull off a major trade.

The one that I'd love to see is Mutumbo. It's interesting that he has them on his "wish list" as I think he'd be a great fit on that team.

If they could somehow package Geiger + Kukoc and land the big fella, man would they be a contender. Mutumbo may be old, but he still pulls down 15 - 20 Boards on a good night and is still the best big man defender.

Just imagine Mutumbo AND Ratliff TOGETHER in the paint...The two best shot blockers in the game together!

If Iverson could have a huge playoff series...anything could happen.

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[GATER]

Kukoc + Geiger for Deke doesn't work capwise because Toni is a BYC player.

In order to balance salaries, the Hawks would have to include Anthony Johnson and the Sixers would have to part with Aaron McKie. That might work for the Sixers as Snow is out for 6-8 weeks. McKie might get alot of minutes at SG for Atlanta. This seems pretty good for Philly, but IMO if the Hawks lose Mutombo, they are just gonna pack it in for a few years and supplement Jason Terry, DerMarr, and Hanno with draft picks and maybe a free agent from Mutombo's contract void.

Tyrone Hill + Geiger works capwise, but I don't think Philly would do it.

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GATER

[This message has been edited by GATER (edited December 17, 2000).]